Project Integra, Hampshire’s integrated waste management strategy, has been awarded Beacon Council status.

The accolade means that Hampshire County Council, along with its Project Integra partners, is one of the Government’s first wave of national centres of excellence, and will be able to share its expertise with other local authorities.

The decision comes after officials from the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR) visited the County Council to assess the bid, and Project Integra representatives gave a presentation in London. A total of 13 councils were shortlisted in the waste category.

At the heart of the scheme will be a series of open days hosted by each of the 29 Beacon Councils. Project Integra will hold around six open days each year to highlight best practice in the field of waste management, enabling other councils to benefit from its experience.

Head of Management Resources at the County Council and Director of Project Integra, Bob Lisney, said he was delighted that the strategy had been given third party endorsement.

He added: "Our bid was unique because it involved so many partners. Achieving Beacon Council status means we can continue setting the benchmark in terms of waste management and promoting sustainable development.

"Sharing our knowledge with other local authorities is an important aspect of Beacon status and we look forward to establishing an open exchange of ideas and information. I’m sure all the Project Integra partners will meet the challenge.

The County Council’s Education Department had been shortlisted for Beacon Council status for its work with failing schools.

20 December 1999

Note to editors: Project Integra is the county’s integrated waste management system, in partnership with the County Council, 11 district councils, two unitary authorities and private waste contractor, Hampshire Waste Services.